Should I Update My Bios

[web]

Hi all just built new system all seems to work ok now, but my Maximus vi formula bios is currently version 1102 but the latest version 1402 and a beta at 1504 ............ along time ago I was advised not to update bios if things worked but times have changed, and my board has a dedicated usb bios flashback port.

so is it safe to do ? or worth it lol thanks for any help

 

[Boozad]

In my experience the only time to update your BIOS is when you have to, either through issues or CPU upgrade compatibility. If it ain't broke...

 

[indianacarnie]

That's pretty much my opinion too. As long as everything is working properly, whats the point? And I'd definitely stay away from that Beta!

 

[carwiz]

Every BIOS update I review for my system has release info that describes what it's updating or fixing. If it doesn't apply to me, I don't update. If I recall, I used the first two or three because they did fix hardware issues. 8/23/2011 was my last version update. It's also the last update that would allow me to roll back. A CPU upgrade option came through that also changed the BIOS structure so you couldn't roll back. Since I'm not upgrading this board I didn't install it. I always download the USB flash backup for the releases too. It allows me to restore to the previous if something happens.

 

[pricetech]

I probably update the BIOS on the computers I tend more often than anybody, but I can always be certain the BIOS is correct and there's always a way to roll back if I need to.
However, generically speaking, I agree with the philosophy of not fixing what ain't broke.

If your update doesn't address an issue you're having, don't do it.

 

[matts6887]

my opinions is the same as everyone elses. If it aint broke dont fix it. While upgrading the bios can lead to new features, etc; most of the time its not worth it if its something minor; as you run the risk of turning the motherboard into a paperweight if the update does not complete properly due to hardware issues, etc. So i wouldnt bother with it unless absolutely essential.

 

[sygnus21]

Anytime you update a BIOS there should be concern as something done wrong can hose your system. With that out of the way... I update my BIOS anytime a new one is released, whether I have issues at the moment or not. The only thing you need to do once the update is complete is checking to see if your settings changed; if so, reset them, if not, all should be good.

In that sense, if you're not familiar with the BIOS and your settings, than don't update; If you are familiar, than a BIOS update isn't a big deal. Just make sure you read the instructions.

Lastly... though you may not have issues now, if you upgrade your system, you could find yourself in a situation where that new BIOS becomes necessary. Example - new/expanded CPU/hard drive support.

Anyway it's funny that I ran into this post because I'm about to update mine on this board (see system specs) as it improves overclocking and adds support for additional processors.

Peace

 

[Nostromov]

"for additional processors" - which you do not have? xD

The only thing you need to do once the update is complete is checking to see if your settings changed; if so, reset them, if not, all should be good.

Shouldn't be an issue with UEFI..

Edit: Oh & what everyone else said: if the what's new doesn't apply to you, no need 2 mess w/it; & have the old won backed-up 4 sure.

 

[sygnus21]

The only thing you need to do once the update is complete is checking to see if your settings changed; if so, reset them, if not, all should be good.

Shouldn't be an issue with UEFI..

I'm sorry you lost me

 

[New FS]

As everyone has said is the trade-off worth the risk. I have found most bios updates come in an EXE. while this is okay but there are some many things that can go wrong in the system. See if they have a disk image of the bios. boot from the cd ( or whatever you use to burn the image) and doing it like that would minimise alot of problems that could go wrong. Also you can see if you motherboard keeps a backup of you bios that can be trigged in case of a dud.

I would have updated my bios by now if my manufacturer had that option.

 

[Outlander]

I used to be an avid BIOS updater...never missed an update. Thought I was invincible. Then one day when I was feeling over confident, Coyote got me....there was no way out. The chip was corrupted. Motherboard was dead. The self loathing went on for several days.....Then just as I was about to part the old girl I noticed that the BIOS chip was removable which is not always the case. I ordered a nw chip, installed at and away it went.. I have never updated a BIOS since. The lessons of Coyote are quite intricate sometimes.......